Advocacy

Take Action

Public policy is critical to ensuring that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live fully inclusive and productive lives within the community. At the Arc of Monmouth we are proud to be engaged in advocacy and education pertaining to improving the lives of those with IDD. Each year, we send representatives to attend the Disability Policy Summit in Washington DC and coordinate with The Arc of The United States to navigate public policy involving those with IDD. We cannot do all of this alone however. It is the strong community behind people with IDD that has made any progress possible. And we hope you will join that community! You can learn more about current issues and challenges people with IDD are met with by checking out the guide created by The Arc of The United States below.  

Vote and Let Your Voice Be Heard!

Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Make sure you are registered to vote by checking your voter registration status.

While there are many ways to advocate, your vote is the most powerful tool you have to let your voice be heard!

The Arc of The United States has put together a guide that explains everything involving how to register, how to vote, along with ways to encourage others to vote.

Be a Self-Advocate

There is no voice more powerful in disability advocacy than those who are themselves disabled. If you have an intellectual or developmental disability, The Arc of Monmouth encourages you to be a self-advocate. The Arc of New Jersey runs The New Jersey Self-Advocacy Project (NJSAP) to challenge individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to become involved in events, legislative policies, and issues that affect their lives or lives of others with disabilities. 

NJSAP conducts trainings and leadership seminars for self-advocates and group advisors across the state as well as public outreach initiatives and educating elected officials on issues of importance to people with IDD.

Subscribe to our e-newsletter The Turning Point to stay informed on IDD issues present in the news and any legislation that has substantial implications for people with IDD.